On Thursday, November 20th at 6:00 PM, the Unitarian Universalists of South Bend will gather for the Trans Day of Remembrance—a sacred evening of mourning, truth-telling, and communal care. Each year, this service calls us to remember the transgender and gender-nonconforming people whose lives were taken by violence, hatred, and neglect. It is a day held in deep grief, deep love, and a deeper commitment to justice.
Trans Day of Remembrance began in 1999 as a vigil for Rita Hester, a Black transgender woman whose murder was met with silence from local authorities and media. That silence—still echoed in too many corners of our nation—became a catalyst for a movement of remembrance and resistance. Today, TDOR is observed worldwide, becoming one of the most important rituals for acknowledging the ongoing crisis of anti-trans violence.
This year, our service will include readings, music, candle lighting, and a space for reflection. It is a tender, solemn gathering. We come together not only to say the names of those we have lost, but to affirm the inherent worth and dignity of every trans person—those we remember, those who are here with us, and those still discovering who they are.
For transgender people and their loved ones, this day is often heavy. For allies, it is a call to show up with courage, humility, and love. As Unitarian Universalists, we understand that memory alone is not enough. Remembrance must move us toward action—toward building communities that protect, uplift, and celebrate trans lives.
Our Commitment to Safety and Care
In light of rising threats against LGBTQ+ communities across the country, our planning team has taken meaningful steps to ensure that this service is as safe and welcoming as possible. We will be implementing concert-style security measures, including a clear bag policy and a brief wand screening at the entrance. These precautions are rooted not in fear, but in care—for the trans community, for all attendees, and for the sacredness of this night.
We understand that safety looks different for different people, and we will do everything we can to make the process gentle, respectful, and transparent. Our hope is to create a space where grief can be held tenderly and where the work of solidarity can continue to grow.
Community Support for The Trevor Project
This year, local organizations and faith communities are partnering with us as event sponsors. All proceeds will be donated directly to The Trevor Project, supporting crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth. The generosity of our sponsors is a clear message: trans lives matter, and our community is committed to showing up.
All Are Welcome
Whether you are trans, nonbinary, queer, a family member, an ally, or someone seeking to learn—you are welcome. If this is your first TDOR, we welcome you gently. If you come every year carrying memories and names close to your heart, we honor your resilience.
Grief shared in community becomes lighter. Love shared in community becomes stronger.
Please join us:
Trans Day of Remembrance Service
📅 Thursday, November 20, 2025
⏰ 6:00 PM
📍 Unitarian Universalists of South Bend
801 E. Washington St., South Bend, IN
A reception will follow the service.
May this gathering be a reminder that we are not alone, that every life has inherent worth, and that together we can build a world where all people—especially those whose dignity is most threatened—can live freely and fully.